Alford to stay with Lobos for 10 more years

ALBUQUREQUE (KRQE) - The University of New Mexico has confirmed that Head Basketball Coach Steve Alford has signed a new 10 year contract with the Lobos.

UNM's fulls statement on Alford contract>>

The news of Coach Steve Alford’s new contract came one day before the Lobos kicked off their NCAA Tournament run in Salt Lake City.

The Lobos were on the court Wednesday taking part in their last practice before they take on the Harvard crimson Thursday.
    
Coach Alford’s deal is reassuring the UNM faithful that whatever happens in the tournament, the same general will be leading the charge.

“I’m just excited about,” Alford said. “I’ve had a lot of fun through six years…it's something that I think we've really started to put our imprint on the program.”

Coach Alford talked about the new contract at a press conference that wrapped up less than an hour ago.
    
Athletics Director Paul Krebs says UNM wanted to continue what he calls a "great era in l\Lobo basketball".
    
In Alford’s time at New Mexico, the Lobos have won three times as many game as they've lost and have made the tournament three times.
    
A sizable contingent of Lobo family members and fans are here to watch the team practice.
    
The overall reaction from them overjoyed thrilled that Coach Alford is not going anywhere anytime soon.
    
Alford is hoping his new deal isn't a distraction for his players as they look to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament.
    
One of those players, , his son Kory Alford, was possibly a big part in coach's decision to sign a long term deal.
    
Bailing out early would cost Alford a lot of money.
    
He would have to pay UNM $1 million if he leaves before April of 2015, $500,000 between 2015 and 2017 and $300,000 after that.
 
The Lobos play Harvard Thursday night at 7:50 p.m. Mountain Time.
   
The game will be broadcast on NT.
    
The New Mexico State Aggies play their first round NCAA game at San Jose, California Thursday.
    
The Aggies face St. Louis just after 12 p.m. on TNT.